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2002 RDV wheel hub/bearing replacement


prostar14
10-02-2008, 09:42 AM
I am trying to replace my front wheel bearing. I've read a couple write-ups and I have done one before on a Saturn (http://www.buickforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=36359#), as well as many other jobs on cars (http://www.buickforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=36359#). I think I have to throw in the towel here though.

The problem is that the hub and axle are rusted/bonded to each other with some force heretofore unknown by man. Either that, or there is some kind of lock ring that I didn't see (and can take a lot of force). The common methods include "put the axle nut flush to the end of the axle and tap it with a hammer" or "use a puller on the hub with the centre on the axle". Some say it just "slid off". Well I put a 6" 3-armed puller on it, and tightened until it ate into the axle, and then broke one of the arms. Next I put the axle nut on, then pounded on it with a hammer. Next I heated it to a "smoking" hot temperature and whacked it with a 24 oz construction hammer until I was afraid the nut/axle may be ruined. Then I heated it once more, put the puller (reversed the arms) on again until it started to eat into the axle, and whacked the screw of the puller.... She aint commin' off.....

I'd love to hear how there is "some part" that I just forgot to remove (and is now probably damaged).

Airjer_
10-02-2008, 09:44 AM
Let it soak overnight with deep creep, hit it with an air hammer. It will come out!!

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